Depovilly Simple Microscope

This elegant microscope has two engraved plates that are hinged at one end and joined to the turned ivory handle. It is engraved "Depovilly a Paris", and was manufactured sometime around the year 1686.

Positioned between the engraved plates is a rotating brass wheel that projects beyond the edges of the plates and contains eight specimens of varying types. Focusing is accomplished by means of a milled-edge wheel that alters the distance between the two plates' edges. This single lens microscope operates in a manner similar to the famous Dutch Leeuwenhoek microscope, by placing the high-powered lens (located in the circular cup) next to the eye.